2. What is Faith?

“Now faith is the substance of things hoped for, the evidence of things not seen.” (Hebrews 11:1) Faith is the proof of those things that we know, the evidence of things not seen. Faith is the confident assurance that something is actually true, and believing in the atoning death and resurrection of Jesus Christ is necessary for salvation. “For without faith it is impossible to please Him, for he who comes to God must believe that He is, and that He is a rewarder of those that diligently seek Him.” (Hebrews 11:6)

Faith is very practical and we all use faith on a daily basis.

We may have never been to China, but we see Chinese people, Chinese food, the Chinese language, and countless products from China and so we have faith that China really exists.

“For we walk by faith, not by sight.” (2 Corinthians 5:7)

For a believer, faith in Jesus Christ is also very practical. In light of the factors we can see, like our sinful condition before the Lord, the authority of the written Scriptures, and the convicting power of the Holy Spirit, we can confidently place our faith in Jesus’ sacrifice as payment for our sins, and be assured that He rose from the dead on the third day. As Job affirmed concerning the Christ who was to come “For I know that my Redeemer lives.” (Job 19:25)

Saving faith is a requirement for eternal life, as it is written: “The just shall live by faith.” (Romans 1:17) A genuine saving faith is more than a mere assent to the facts about Jesus; it’s actually placing your trust in the God of the Bible and knowing that what He has promised, He will surely deliver.

The Scriptures illustrate this trust as follows:

“Blessed is the man who trusts in the Lord, and whose hope is the Lord.” (Jeremiah 17:7)

“Whoever believes on Him will not be put to shame.” (Romans 10:11)

“They shall not be ashamed who wait for Me.” (Isaiah 49:23)

“None of those who trust in Him shall be condemned.” (Psalm 34:22)

Read the next article in the series: 3. How to learn about God